The Big Free Bookstore

When I first began coming to this facility with my daughter, I was informed that she was allowed to use the restroom. My daughter is two years old and currently potty training.nnOn Wednesday, January 14, 2026, I was told by staff in the office that the restroom was “off limits” and could only be used in the event of an emergency. I explained that my daughter is a toddler who is potty training, yet no accommodation or clarification was provided.nnToday, January 20, 2026, I returned and noticed two carts placed in front of the restroom, appearing to intentionally block access. I called out to ask if it was okay to use the restroom, but no one was present in the office. After exiting the restroom, a post had been placed to block the area, which felt unnecessarily passive aggressive.nnI am struggling to understand how a facility that is open to the public and serves children does not allow restroom access for a potty training toddler. While there is a sign stating “No Public Restrooms,” signage like this is typically intended for non customers. As an active patron attending with a small child, this policy is both impractical and unreasonable.nnI would appreciate clarification on this policy and how it applies to young children, as well as an explanation of how families with toddlers are expected to manage basic needs while using your services.nnThank you for your time and attention to this matter.

YES, the books are literally FREE! So nice to see tax dollars going to something that ACTUALLY benefits OUR communities! Yesterday, while accompanying my husband on a trip to Woodcraft (next door), we discovered this little gem. I was completely dumbfounded by the FREE concept and thought certainly there must be a catch…but to my surprise NO catch just FREE! I believe its 2 used and 2 new per person per household every 2 wks…How?! As I understand it thru donations(used books) and grants (to purchase new books) they've devised a wonderful program to promote literary in our own communities! What a beautiful idea! I hope the word will spread (increasing their stock) and facility size or promote more to grow throughout Hampton Roads. I fully intend to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity for our entire family! I mean, who doesnt have at least a few old books they're never gonna read or read again. Why not donate them here! Instead of the usual drop off at your local Goodwill, who will more than likely place them online at absurd prices, fattening more corporate pockets like Bezos. I for one would much rather see beloved stories benefit and be cherished by my neighbors. I'll be collecting a slew of books to donate and look forward to continue building this symbiotic relationship of sharing while furthering my families education. What more could one ask for in a neighborhood literary program! Absolutely ❤️ Love this! 10 STARS for concept and effort alone! The more you know!🌠😉nCherished are the Storytellers

The Big Free Bookstore is such an amazing resource for the community. I do not have access to reliable transportation, so I don't regularly go to the library like I'd like, thus cannot reliably return books before they are due, and books can be so pricey. I always swing by when I am in the area, and grab a few books for my kids, as well as something for myself. When I have a little money, I will try to donate or purchase something from their merchandise for sale as support. My kids and I are so grateful for this program, and I always refer folks to them when given the opportunity.

What an amazing store!! I received free books for my kids and also donated kids books to them as well. Everyone there was friendly, kind and super nice. We appreciate what you are doing to promote reading especially for children. They also have books for adults. There were toys for kids to play while I was going through bookshelves to choose books for my kids. A couple of weeks ago I received a thank you email from Max for donation. How nice of them!! Thank you so much again for making books accessible to everyone at no costs.

Great selection of new and used books! Something for everyone! Very friendly staff and clean store!!